Asked by Chanelle Nichuals on May 30, 2024
Verified
Following the cognitive buffer hypothesis, we can predict that
A) species with larger relative brain size are more likely to occur in regions with higher environmental variation.
B) species that engage in food caching are more likely to occur in predictable environments.
C) better cognitive ability is a tradeoff with reproductive success
D) species found in harsh, unpredictable environments are more likely to be impacted by landscapes of fear, at the expense of efficient foraging.
Cognitive Buffer Hypothesis
The theory that suggests cognitive abilities in animals have evolved to deal with complex and changing environments, providing a survival advantage.
Relative Brain Size
A measure comparing brain size to body size among different species, often used to make inferences about cognitive abilities.
Environmental Variation
The variation in environmental conditions experienced by organisms within a habitat, which can influence evolutionary and ecological processes.
- Understand the cognitive buffer hypothesis and its predictions about brain size, environmental variability, and foraging efficiency.
Verified Answer
JN
JOSHUA NYANGENAJun 04, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
The cognitive buffer hypothesis suggests that larger brains (indicating better cognitive abilities) provide an evolutionary advantage in coping with environmental variability. Thus, species with larger relative brain sizes are more likely to be found in regions with higher environmental variation, as their cognitive abilities allow them to adapt to changing conditions more effectively.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the cognitive buffer hypothesis and its predictions about brain size, environmental variability, and foraging efficiency.